Kathikas

Kathikas is a historic, stone-built village located in the Paphos District of Cyprus, situated on the Laona plateau at an altitude of about 650 meters. Situated midway between the city of Paphos and the northern coastal town of Polis Chrysochous, Kathikas is widely regarded as one of the premier wine-producing villages in the region. It has preserved its traditional character, featuring narrow paved streets, historic stone architecture, and old houses with large wooden gates leading to interior courtyards.

The village is famous for its gastronomy and viticulture, attracting visitors who come to tour its boutique wineries and dine in its highly regarded traditional taverns. Kathikas is surrounded by vineyards that thrive in the fertile soil and temperate climate of the plateau.

The climate in Kathikas is Mediterranean but tempered by its elevation, meaning summers are noticeably cooler and less humid than the coastal plains. Winters are mild to cool, with occasional rainfall. The best time to visit is during the late summer and early autumn (August to October) during the grape harvest, or in the spring when the surrounding valleys are green and covered in wildflowers.

By Plane

The closest airport is Paphos International Airport (IATA: PFO), located approximately 33 kilometers south of Kathikas. A taxi from the airport to the village takes about 35 to 40 minutes and costs around €45 to €55. Larnaca International Airport (IATA: LCA) is about 155 kilometers to the east, with a driving time of approximately 2 hours.

By Train

Cyprus has no active railway network.

By Car / Road

Kathikas is easily accessible by car. From Paphos, take the B7 highway north toward Polis. After about 15 kilometers, turn left onto the E709 road and follow it directly into Kathikas. Alternatively, a scenic route runs north from Peyia along the E709. The drive from Paphos takes approximately 25 to 30 minutes.

OSYP (Paphos Transport) operates infrequent bus services connecting Paphos and Polis to Kathikas, but renting a car is highly recommended for flexibility.

The village center is small and can be easily explored entirely on foot. To visit the surrounding vineyards, wineries, and neighboring villages, a car or bicycle is necessary. Parking is available in public areas near the village square.

• Church of Panagia Evangelistria: Located in the center of the village, this impressive stone church dates back to 1908 and features beautiful architecture and a peaceful courtyard.

• Vasilikon Winery: One of the oldest and most respected wineries in the Paphos region, located on the outskirts of the village. It offers a modern visitor center, wine tastings, and a small museum showcasing historic wine-making equipment.

• Sterna Winery: A boutique family-run winery that features traditional wine cellars, tastings, and views of the surrounding vineyards.

• Wine Tasting: Take a guided tour of the local wineries to learn about indigenous Cypriot grape varieties like the white Xynisteri and the red Maratheftiko.

• Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the surrounding agricultural countryside and vineyards on foot. Several local paths offer scenic views of the Akamas Peninsula and the Mediterranean Sea.

• Agrotourism: Walk through the quiet village streets to admire the traditional architecture and stone masonry, and interact with the local residents.

Kathikas is renowned throughout the Paphos district for its excellent traditional dining options, which draw food lovers from all over the island.

• Imogen's Taverna: A popular, family-run restaurant serving a creative mix of traditional Cypriot and Greek meze, with excellent vegetarian and vegan options, in a charming courtyard.
• Yiannis Tavern: Set in a beautifully restored stone building, this tavern is famous for its generous traditional meze, grilled meats, and slow-cooked kleftiko.
• Araouzos Tavern: A long-standing village favorite offering authentic Cypriot dishes prepared with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients.

• Local Wines: Enjoy a glass of fresh Xynisteri (dry white) or Lefkada (red) at any of the local taverns or winery tasting rooms.
• Cypriot Coffee: Visit a local coffee shop in the village square to enjoy traditional coffee served in small cups with a glass of cold water.
• Water Safety: Tap water is safe for drinking, though bottled water is widely available.

• Budget: Local apartments and guesthouses offer self-catering accommodation in traditional stone buildings at reasonable prices (typically €50–€70 per night).
• Mid-range: Restored traditional houses such as Loxandra's House or Michalis Anoyia offer authentic, comfortable apartments with rustic furnishings and modern amenities (typically €75–€110 per night).
• Upscale / heritage: Large private agrotourism villas with private pools and traditional courtyards are available for rent on the outskirts of the village (typically €120–€200 per night).

• Local Wine: Kathikas is the ideal place to purchase high-quality local wines directly from the producers.
• Soutzoukos: A traditional Cypriot sweet made from grape must and nuts (usually almonds or walnuts), which is threaded on a string and dipped in thickened grape juice.
• Olive Oil and Honey: Local shops and wineries sell pure olive oil and mountain honey produced in the surrounding hills.

• Drousia (5 km north): A traditional village situated on the Laona plateau, known for its cool climate and panoramic views.
• Peyia (10 km southwest): A larger town overlooking the popular resort area of Coral Bay.
• Polis Chrysochous (15 km north): A relaxed coastal town with sandy beaches and access to the Akamas Peninsula.
• Paphos (23 km south): The main regional city, featuring UNESCO World Heritage archaeological sites and a lively harbor.